Returning from the Shawnee, Brigadier General Jonathan Carleton rejoins General George Washington’s army to find the patriot cause on the verge of extinction. Against all odds, in a daring gamble the American force crosses the Delaware River during a raging nor’easter to attack the Hessian outpost at Trenton. The American force wins a stunning victory, then fights the British to a draw at Princeton before vanishing into the mountain bastions around Morristown.

Back in New York, Elizabeth is drawn ever deeper into the dangerous intrigues that swirl around General William Howe—and the increasingly persistent attentions of Dr. Pieter Vander Groot, who now claims allegiance to the rebels. When Carleton is forced to take the doctor prisoner, Elizabeth and her aunt move to Philadelphia to wait for the rumored British attack on the city.

With the Americans digging in at Brandywine Creek, Carleton comes within a hair’s breadth of being captured and is ordered to the upper Hudson Valley, where a force commanded by his old nemesis, British General John Burgoyne, closes in on Saratoga. With decisive battles looming on all fronts, Elizabeth and Carleton are once again torn from each other’s arms, and this time they face a crucible of war that will test their mettle and their love for each other and God to the very limits—and beyond.

“Historic. Romantic. Riveting. Rich and multi-layered, Crucible of War is the epic continuation of an unforgettable series. Joan Hochstetler gives us a rare glimpse into America's past, leaving the reader enriched and wanting more. I highly recommend this amazing book and series!” —Laura Frantz, author of Love's Reckoning

“J. M. Hochstetler weaves a tapestry rich in detail, a riveting story of adventure and intrigue in a time when men and women made choices that wrenched the heart, but honored God. An engaging new chapter in the on-going saga of how an enduring nation—and an equally enduring romance—were forged in the Crucible of War.” —Lori Benton, author of Burning Sky

“We have given this series to all of our family so that they will understand the foundation of this country and the freedoms they enjoy. If you haven’t read it yet, you should. You will relive the sacrifices, romances, and pain experienced by past patriots. You will understand what you have benefited from when you experience this trip through history as written by Joan. It is historically accurate fiction, and a very engaging and interesting read. I can’t wait for the next book to come out!” —John E. Anderson, SGM Ret., U.S. Army Intelligence & Communications Command